“We’re SkyWest through United,” Fornwalt explains. “And then we have a lot of commercial, corporate, and general aviation.”The airport currently supports two daily SkyWest flights to Denver, with one flight on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and the team is working to add a second destination—Houston—another major United hub that would significantly enhance connectivity for regional travelers. Passenger growth is already providing a strong case for expanded capacity. Enplanements climbed from just over 8,000 last year to more than 9,000 this year, with potential to reach 10,000 depending on yearend volume.That increase, roughly 10 to 20 percent year-over-year, is placing immediate pressure on terminal space and supporting the airport’s push for larger-scale infrastructure investment. PARKING AND TERMINAL PLANS BUILT AROUND GROWTH Two of the airport’s most significant projects—the parking lot expansion and terminal upgrade—are being pursued in tandem, each designed to support future flight growth while improving the passenger experience. The parking lot expansion is currently in design, with plans to go to bid in March. The airport will submit its FAA funding application in April, with construction anticipated toward the end of next year or into early 2027, depending on award timelines. The project is expected to total roughly $2 million, with the FAA covering 95 percent of eligible costs. While the parking expansion advances through the design and funding cycle, the terminal expansion remains a critical priority. Fornwalt is preparing to pursue approval through the FAA’s ATP program as that funding window reopens, aiming to secure support in the coming months. The vision is clear. The terminal is expected to at least double in size, delivering space for two gates initially, with future capability to reach a third—an important step if additional flight service is added. Internally, the expansion will address operational limitations that are already evident. The airport team is working within tight quarters, 201 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 13, ISSUE 01 LIBERAL-MID AMERICA REGIONAL AIRPORT
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